Every runner has a ritual – something they swear by before a race. Maybe it’s wearing the same lucky socks, eating an exact pre-race meal, or following a strict warm-up routine. Some of these habits may seem quirky, but science suggests they actually help! Superstitions can boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and create a sense of control, all of which can enhance performance.

To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, we’ve put together the top 7 signs that bring good luck to runners! Whether you believe in fate or just love a good tradition, these superstitions have helped runners feel unstoppable on race day.

👟 Lucky Gear

Shalane Flanagan, the 2017 NYC Marathon champion, always wore the same sunglasses for major races. They didn’t make her faster, but they made her feel unstoppable. And one golden rule? Never wear your race shirt before finishing! Some say it’s bad luck – others believe you have to earn it.

🥑 Pre-Race Food Rituals

Eliud Kipchoge, the marathon world record holder, swears by plain white bread and tea before every race. Many runners are equally loyal to their pre-run fuel – oatmeal with peanut butter, a banana, or even a peanut butter packet on hand just in case!

🔢 Lucky Bib Numbers

In 2019, Brigid Kosgei smashed the women’s marathon world record while wearing bib 218 – a number she said just felt right. Some runners even request bibs with 777, 222, or their birth year for an extra dose of race-day luck.

✋ Pre-Start Rituals

Mo Farah, the British Olympic runner, follows the same warm-up routine and hand gestures before every race. And he’s not alone! A Boston Marathon runner taps her left shoe three times at the start line – skip it, and something just feels off.

🔮 Charms & Keepsakes

Paula Radcliffe, the former marathon world record holder, always raced with her lucky necklace. One Chicago Marathon runner tucks a handwritten note from her kids into her pocket, pulling it out for motivation when the race gets tough.